SINTON - After petitioning the Sinton City Council during Tuesday’s meeting, a proclamation was approved, designating August 23 as “Coach Leroy ‘Tubby’ Bryant Day.”

The proclamation was presented, as an agenda item, by Linda Dunlap and John Curlee, members of the Class of 1965, with additional classmates, Cheryl Rigotti and Eileen Troup attending the meeting as supporters.

Coach Bryant came to Sinton in 1951, as a teacher, and continued his career in education until 1965. During his time, Bryant was a mentor and inspiration to hundreds of people and students.

“I’ve heard stories of Coach Bryant being called, by parents, to talk to their child when they were in trouble,” Dunlap said. “He helped so many stay in school and go on.”

Coach Bryant is still admired by many people of the schools and community. “If not for him, many would have never finished school,” Dunlap added. The unique thing about Coach Bryant is that, to this day, he will get random and sporadic phone calls from former students simply to catch up on what’s new or to thank him for making a difference in their lives.

In light of approval of the proclaimed “Coach Leroy ‘Tubby’ Bryant Day,” a surprise reception was coordinated by Linda and Richard Dunlap, Sharon and Chip Weaver, Jane and John Curlee, Lorie and Denson Copus and Evelyn Vauthier.

“Coach Bryant was a full-time coach and he kept many of us in line,” Curlee said. “We are expecting 75 to 100 people, at least, at this reception.” With a span of fourteen years, Coach Bryant was able to make a difference in many, many lives.

Now retired, and residing in San Antonio, Coach Bryant will be able to do a lot of catching up with friends at this weekend’s reception. The reception will be hosted at the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, in Sinton, on Saturday, Aug. 23, from 2-5:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to share in this special occasion, honoring Coach Bryant.